Spring has come to East Tennessee and this time of year, everything is in full bloom as we gear up for Knoxville’s 52nd annual Dogwood Arts Festival. Legend has it that when New York journalist John Gunther visited our fair hamlet way back in 1947, he called it “America’s ugliest city.” Never ones to take a comment like that lying down, East Tennesseans sprang into action, mobilizing a movement to change outsider perceptions that Knoxville was just a “scruffy little city on the river.” With … [Read more...]
Ewin’s Dry Goods
Bryon Larrence of Ewin’s Dry Goods After stumbling upon Ewin’s Dry Goods, I knew that this guy HAD to be cool. Items like whisky rocks, leather goods, custom knives, and shaving kits are not the typical go to when purchasing a gift for a male. Ewin’s Dry Goods takes masculine gifts to the next level. Bryon Larrence, a Tennessee musician, is no stranger to luxury goods. With months at a time on the road, he has been exposed to cool and interesting items all over. A drummer with passion for … [Read more...]
An East Tennessee Holiday from Southern Belle Simple
Christmas is upon us and here in my sweet southern city of Knoxville, the goose is definitely getting fat. First, I guess I should introduce myself. I'm Kate Spears and you can usually find me over at my personal blog, Southern Belle Simple. I was beyond honored when Kevin extended the invitation for me to contribute here at The Trot Line. For my first post, we decided I should share a little taste of the festivities going on in my neck of the woods in East Tennessee. I've lived … [Read more...]
Southern Culture HOMEGROWN in Nashville
New York and LA have received plenty of attention for art and design. If you keep up with news and culture, then you will have seen that the Southeastern region has been making their way into the national spotlight for many reasons including design. The culture and style that is influencing those north of the Mason-Dixon Line is powered by key characteristics in the South. Don't believe me? Checkout New York City's new restaurants who have been serving up smoked pork, shrimp and grits, and … [Read more...]